Skin-sational!

By Erica Metzger
www.jhj.com

See what a difference a day (or a week or a month) makes to your skin once you know what really works.


Get a Glow in One Day

The sun, hormones, past breakouts, medications -- they can all overactivate your pigment cells and lead to a dull, blotchy complexion

Makeup artist Laura Geller suggests applying a light layer of foundation, one with medium coverage and brightening pigments, all over your face. "The goal isn't to cover your skin with a makeup mask," she cautions. Afterward, dab opaque concealer on the most obvious flaws and set with powder.


Get a Glow in One Week

In your 20s, your skin turns over every 28 days, supplying you with fresh, smooth cells. Since this process slows with age, help shed any buildup and speed cell turnover with daily exfoliation. And make SPF 30 part of your daily routine; it will keep spots from darkening and even prevent new ones from forming.


Get a Glow in One Month

Boost results with ingredients that fade and block new pigment formation, like hydroquinone (an FDA-approved bleaching agent), kojic acid, licorice extract, and vitamin C. They'll brighten skin noticeably in a month, but to fully lighten pigment, you'll need three to six months, says dermatologist Audrey Kunin.


Look Younger in One Day

A lifetime of smiling and frowning, along with sun exposure, depletes collagen and leads to lines and sagging.

Moisturizing does more than just ease dry patches. It actually improves the look of your skin by temporarily plumping it, offering instant results. Similarly low maintenance: primers that fill in deeper creases to give your skin a smoother, less-lined appearance. They prep for makeup, too.

Look Younger in One Week

Serums formulated with anti-aging peptides and antioxidants help wake up lazy collagen-producing cells. (Top with moisturizer if needed.) Amp up results by asking your doctor for a prescription retinoid, an FDA-approved vitamin-A derivative used to stimulate collagen production and decrease its breakdown.


Look Younger in One Month

Adopting healthy skin habits -- namely exfoliating and moisturizing -- will improve your skin considerably. Eliminating skin saboteurs will also return your youthful glow. Smoking is a major cause of lines, of course, but even little actions like frequently rubbing your eyes contribute to lines, too.


Keep It Clear in One Day

Absolutely resist picking at the blemish, says dermatologist Jeanine Downie, as that only makes it worse. Instead, cover the area with a concealer that contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. They calm and treat the infection while hiding it from the world and yourself.


Keep It Clear in One Week

"The pimple you see today actually began to form several weeks ago," says dermatologist Dennis Gross, who recommends a nightly acne treatment as a preventive. Dr. Kunin suggests a balancing mask a week before your menstrual cycle begins. Also try products with gentle drying agents such as sulfur and clay.


Keep It Clear in One Month

A kit that gently unclogs pores and reduces oil, bacteria, and inflammation is ideal. if you have severe breakouts, scarring, or cysts, you'll likely need prescription-strength retinoids, such as Retin-A, antibiotics, or even birth control pills. A dermatologist can help you determine the best regimen.